9 Tips on Hiring a Commercial Painter

As a business owner, you’re an expert in your area. When it comes to painting and keeping a professional and refreshed space, likely, that’s outside your wheelhouse. Painting your home can be challenging, but a commercial space has a different list of needs. Here are 9 tips on hiring a commercial painter.

1. Commercial Painting Experience

A commercial space requires specialized knowledge that the average painter might not have. It can be tempting to hire a handyman for a lesser price, but you could be sacrificing the finished project. Commercial painting requires particular materials, surfaces and techniques. Preparation and painting could be very different depending on your space and needs. Do thorough research into your chosen company to make sure they have the skills you need to achieve your goals. Request a commercial driven portfolio be shared before you sign any contracts.

2. Reputation

Even a beautiful portfolio can be misleading if the commercial painter chooses so. Beyond just checking up on previous commercial projects, research review sites to make sure the reputation of the painter is also good. There are quite a few free, online sources at your fingertips. You can also request references directly from the painter. This will allow you to discuss working with the company with a previous customer.

3. Communication

Many business owners put great weight in the communication of a company. From the first call or email, you should expect a professional, and quick response. Are they paying attention to what you’re asking and freely answering the questions? Do they seem quick to dismiss you? Any prickly feeling you get is a tell tale sign.

4. Free Estimates

Most painters, and all commercial providers will more than likely want to see your space before quoting you a price. Typically this is a free, no obligation meeting to get details of the project. The contractor must see your needs to give you a proper quote. The meeting will also give you a good idea of what it’s like to work with this company.

5. Written and Signed Contract

Do not ever allow work to start in your space without a signed contract. The document should include the work, types and colors of paint, repairs to be made and materials used. Likely you’ll find a work schedule estimation, warranty information and payment schedule.

6. Price

Price can give you a good idea of the company you are hiring. Really high bids don’t necessarily mean better work. Typically high prices are out of the running due to budgets. Our professionals warn against low bids too. Low costs can mean a contractor doesn’t understand the work necessary, carry proper licensing and insurance or uses less than quality materials.

7. Bonded, Licensed and Insured

From your research and dealings with the painter you are leaning toward will give you a good idea of their experience and reputation. You should confirm that your provider is bonded, insured and licensed. These requirements protect you and your company should anything go wrong on the job site. Otherwise, you could be on the hook to cover any damage, injury or theft.

8. Minimizing Disruption of Operations

Painting your work space should not cause too much disruption in the workflow. Most painters, especially commercial, offer to work around your operations schedule. Working with your foreman will allow you to create a schedule that everyone can work with.

9. Consider CertaPro Painters

CertaPro Painters checks all the boxes outlined above. Our estimators are happy to meet with you to discuss your project. Contact us today to set up an appointment.